2. OPTION SELECTION 2012 GRADE 8 PROCESS FOR THE 2012- 2013 SCHOOL YEAR

3. INTRODUCTION Grade 9 is a major decision point You are setting the stage for your High School program Choose wisely so you have the prerequisite courses for grade 10

4. LEVEL OF STUDY There are three levels of study in Grade 9: - Open - Applied - Academic

5. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE? Open level courses allow you to explore subjects of interest Applied courses are more “hands-on” and are more practical in nature. Applied courses lead to College level courses in Grade 11 Academic course are more theoretical and deal with concepts more quickly. Academic courses lead to University courses in Grade 11

6. HOW DO I DECIDE WHICH LEVEL TO TAKE? Carefully consider the level of study in English, Math and Science – The Core Subject Areas Consider how you have done in Grade 7 and 8 To continue in the academic level you should have achieved about 70% or better If you are achieving in the 50’s or low 60’s you should consider the applied level Consider the pathway to your intended destination - Is it Apprenticeship, College or University?

7. Compulsory Courses ENG1P0 or ENG1D0 [English] MFM1P0 or MPM1D0 [Math] SNC1P0 or SNC1D0 [Science] CGC1P0 or CGC1D0 [Geography] FSF1P0 or FSF1D0 [French] PPL1OF or PPL1OM

8. Optional Courses Choose one (1) from the following: –BTT1O0 [Business] –HIF1O0 [Family and Social Living] –TIJ1O0 [Exploring Technologies]

9. OPTIONAL COURSES Choose one (1) from the following: –ADA1O0 [Drama] –AMI1O1 [Beginner Band] –AMI1O2 [Experienced Band] –AMV1O0 [Vocal Music] –AVI1O0 [Visual Arts]

10. Questions?? Talk to your Teachers Talk to your Guidance Counsellor Talk to your Parents Talk to your Friends/Relatives Visit the Erindale Website Attend the Grade 8 Parents Night at Erindale on December 1 st – 6:30 p.m.

11. Summary Option selection is an important process When complete you must submit a Option Sheet to your home room teacher Talk to your Counsellor, Teachers and Parents for information and advice Choose wisely now as changes next year may be difficult! Attend the Grade 8 Parents Night Thursday December 1 st - 6:30 p.m.